High Stem Position Overview

High stem is not a static position but rather a dynamic movement that creates multiple offensive options. The loop choke is particularly effective when the opponent has both knees on the mat, as it allows the practitioner to transition from various setups such as butterfly sweeps, collar ties, or foot-on-biceps control.

Establishing Base and Frame

From the bottom position, the practitioner must establish a hand frame on the opponent's shoulder while maintaining a back hand base. This base is essential for executing the high stem movement, as it enables the practitioner to create upward pressure even when the opponent applies downward force or grabs the pants.

Foot Placement for Control

The outside foot must be positioned between the opponent's legs to prevent the opponent from escaping around the head. By keeping the foot in the middle of the opponent's legs, the practitioner can use leg drive to create both pushing and pulling actions that enhance control before transitioning to the high stem.

The Elbow-First Heist

When executing the high stem, the elbow must rise before the hand reaches for the collar. Attempting to control the head first creates timing issues that reduce success rates. The elbow-first approach allows the practitioner to collar tie the opponent's posture while simultaneously positioning the arm to complete the choke grip.

Knee Slide and Choke Application

Once the collar tie is secured with the elbow positioned correctly, the practitioner slides the knee toward the opponent's knee to create pressure and force the opponent to post their base. This action sets up the loop choke while the hand completes the grip in the gap created by the elbow.

Three Finishing Scenarios

The opponent has three likely responses: immediate submission to the choke, a sprawl that allows the practitioner to hook the leg for a secondary tap, or a spin escape. In the spin scenario, the practitioner follows to top position and reapplies the same mechanical principles—elbow first, then hand insertion—to secure the finish.

Critical Postural Details

Maintaining a low, forward chest position is essential for choking effectiveness; if the posture becomes too high, the elbow ends up behind the head and the position is lost. The practitioner must keep chest pressure on the opponent while executing the knee slide to prevent escape and maximize choke leverage.

Grip and Leg Hook Mechanics

The grip uses three fingers from the beginning of the movement and should remain as light as possible while maintaining control. When the opponent sprawls, the practitioner immediately hooks the leg by crossing or gripping the thigh, creating a secondary submission threat that often forces the tap before the choke fully sets in.

Heisting Loop Choke by Nicholas Meregali

BJJ Fanatics

Loop Choke

3 min read·8 key moments·PT7M4S video

Key Takeaways

•High Stem Position Overview
•Establishing Base and Frame
•Foot Placement for Control
•The Elbow-First Heist

HEISTING LOOP CHOKE Tutorial https://bjjfanatics.com Nicholas Meregali teaches how to do the Heisting Loop Choke in this BJJ techniques video. Nicholas Meregali is one of the top BJJ black belts in the world today with 5 world championships under his belt. This is an excerpt from THE UNSTOPPABLE LOOP CHOKE available from BJJFanatics.com. - For all your BJJ Gear and Apparel Needs Visit - https://store.bjjfanatics.com/ - Are you a BJJ Fanatics Insider? If not, you are missing out! Join now at: https://bjjfanatics.com/products/insiders-club - To learn more great Jiu Jitsu Techniques, visit https://www.bjjfanatics.com BJJ Fanatics was started by a pair of black belts (Bernardo Faria & Michael Zenga) who feel that nothing is more important than improving your BJJ skills as much as possible in the least amount of time. Their aim was to create a shop for BJJ Students who don’t look at BJJ as a sport – but as a lifestyle. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAqme-CE-yLm01BV5nUjPPA Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/733553463659020/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjj.fanatics/?hl=en 15% OFF On All Of Our BJJ Instructional Videos - Just Use The Coupon Code: FANATICSYOUTUBE Website: https://bjjfanatics.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about loop choke?

This video covers high stem position overview, establishing base and frame, foot placement for control. It provides detailed instruction from BJJ Fanatics.

How long does it take to learn loop choke?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.

Step-by-Step Breakdown8 steps